Each year the top 25 seniors from Joliet Central and West High School are honored at the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce Education Committee’s Top Student Banquet.

The achievements of the Central and West students are impressive and include a variety of scholarships and awards. In addition, their community service and participation in school activities are remarkable.

These students have truly taken advantage of the many opportunities available at Joliet Township High School.

Top Students Joliet Central

This year’s Top 25 Students from Joliet Central High School are: Haylie Aeschliman, Angel Bautista, Garrett Beck, Jared Ellis, Cynthia Esquivel, Vanessa Flores, Andrew Gabl, Moises Garcia, Ben Hallihan, Corissa Hansen, Camaron Harvey, Jesus Hernandez, Damarkco Jackson Jr., Jason Kollross, Jessy Marasco, Melissa Meline, Jaymie Minarich, Jonathan Ortiz, Ignacio Rios, Aubree Smith, Nisa Theard, Cristian Torres, Lesley Ulloa, Jazmyn Zepeda, and Haley Zobel.

Top Students, Joliet West

This year’s Top 25 Students from Joliet West High School are: Jonathan David Berry, Graysen Camille Bormet, Jada Selena Brand, Anthony Conde, Grace Ann Crumbaugh, Madison Jane Dahl, Kai Marc Dzurny, Sarah Concetta Gusewell, Morgan Grace Hester, Joseph Nile Kapral, Jana Lynn Kijowski, Grace Elizabeth Meagher, Marissa Irene Mueller, Amanda Nicole Paez, Hannah Marie Perruquet, Kiley Ann Robb, Franco Rota, Jeremy Taylor Sikes, Allysa Nicole Siranossian, Timothy Douglas Spesia, Elizabeth Irene Tuck, Trey Martin Viramontes, Lauren Elizabeth Widlowski, Jonathon Robert Yanello, and Michael Angel Yanes.

Ripon College’s softball team saw three players named to the All-Conference team Saturday afternoon, as released by the Midwest Conference office. Pitcher Lexi Reetz was voted to the Second Team for the second consecutive season, while outfielder Maddie Koster and infielder Tene Robinson are each making their first appearance on the All-Conference team, with both joining Reetz on the Second Team. Ripon’s three All-Conference selections are the program’s most since the 2011 season, which saw the Red Hawks advance to the NCAA Regional Tournament.

Reetz finished this season with a league-high 142 strikeouts, which ranks second in school history and is just 16 shy of Ripon’s single season record. She won 10 games for the Red Hawks, which was tied for fourth in the MWC and is tied for the ninth-most wins in a season by a Ripon pitcher, allowing opponents to hit just .226 against her, which is the second-lowest opposing batting average allowed this season. A sophomore Psychology major from Oshkosh, Wis., Reetz finished the year with an ERA of 2.11, which was seventh in the MWC and ninth in school history. Her 243 career strikeouts already ranks fourth in Ripon’s record book.

Koster led the Red Hawks in hitting this season with a .395 batting average, but it was during her 17 conference games in which she really excelled. In those games, Koster batted .471, which was the fourth-highest batting average in the MWC. She also recorded an on-base percentage of .500 during conference play, which was fifth-best in the MWC. A senior Exercise Science major from Ripon, Wis., Koster finished the season with three doubles, seven RBI, and five runs scored, all of which came during conference play.

Robinson made the All-Conference team as one of four Second Team At-Large selections. Primarally playing third base, Robinson finished with the second-highest batting average on the team (.276), but recorded a .370 batting average during the 18 conference games she played. Her on-base percentage during those MWC games was .491, which ranked eighth in the MWC, while her nine walks were tied for fifth. A junior Psychology major from Romeoville, Ill., Robinson finished the season with one double, nine RBI, and a team-high 12 runs scored.

Sante Desario

Crest Hill native Sante Deserio was named student trustee for the 2017-2018 school year. The Plainfield Central alum will replace outgoing student trustee Kathleen Duong, who will be transferring to St. Xavier University this fall.

Deserio is a sophomore majoring in political science with plans to pursue law school after completing his undergraduate work in May 2018. As an active Student Government member for the past year, he has served on several college committees including the Environmental Health and Safety Committee, the Alumni Association Board, and the Marketing and Communication Governance Committee.

“Student Government helped me prepare for this role because I’ve become very involved on campus. I’ve met a lot of people, refined my public speaking skills, planned events and had great mentors,” Deserio said. “I also think the environment at JJC has helped me grow, especially because of the individual attention professors give you in class.”

Deserio’s biggest goal as student trustee is to improve communication on campus. He plans to work closely with Student Government and to host open forums and town hall meetings with students throughout the year.

“It’s so important to me that I get to talk to students and let them voice their concerns or ask questions. I am excited to truly be the voice of the students, and to have that direct link to the board,” he said.

He wants students to know that they shouldn’t be afraid to get involved and also that they shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to him with questions, comments or general feedback.

The student trustee sits on the JJC Board of Trustees and works closely with Student Government to ensure the thoughts and opinions of students are represented at board meetings.

By Megann Horstead | For The Bugle

The Joliet City Council, in conjunction with the Joliet Area Historical Museum officials, are looking to put the City of Joliet on the map as a tourist destination by urging State lawmakers to introduce legislation, transferring ownership of the Joliet Correctional Center Prison to the two entities.

Joliet officials agreed May 2 to postpone the consideration of a measure urging the Illinois General Assembly to take legislative action to satisfy this aim. Councilman John Gerl was absent from the meeting.

“When I began in 2013, my challenge from my Board of Directors stated at my interview was find us some sustaining revenue,” said Greg Peerbolte, executive director of Joliet Area Historical Museum. “We don’t know that we can stay on city money forever, so we’re challenging you to find us ways where we can sustain our operations.”

Peerbolte recognizes the polarity discussion of repurposing the prison brings, and said it is in the museum’s interest to follow the concerns and feelings of the constituents to find a way to put the facility to new use.

Prison museums are touted as tourist attractions across the world for a number of destinations, including San Francisco, London and Dublin. Additionally, the subject of incarceration filtrates society through political discourse and popular culture.

Peerbolte referenced data he retrieved on revenue and the number of tourists drawn to penal museums for comparative purposes and said while he doesn’t think Joliet’s prison will draw crowds the way Alcatraz does, it still serves as reason to be open-minded.

“When you’re talking $30 million of revenue, what would 10 percent of that do?” he asked. “What would 10 percent of 1.5 million annual visitors do? Ten percent of $30 million could fund our operations for five years completely.”

Peerbolte said the most comparable tourist attraction to what Joliet can model itself after is Eastern State Penitentiary.

“I’m arguing we have all these ingredients, and we have them even better positioned than Eastern State Penitentiary, which no one’s heard of outside of Philadelphia,” he said.

The site of the Joliet prison closed 15 years ago, and it continues to deteriorate under the State’s ownership. City officials do not have access to the building necessary to run site assessments.

It wasn’t until recently that municipal police officers were granted the authority to arrest subjects for trespassing onto the property in question.

Mayor Bob O’Dekirk questioned what actions should be taken to get a better handle for the facility maintenance needs.

City Manager Jim Hock tried to explain.

“At another meeting, [Sen. Pat McGuire and Rep. Larry Walsh, Jr.], both of them will come here and tell you how hard they’ve tried to get the Department of Corrections and the State to allow us in there to do that kind of assessment, and they’re not willing to do that,” he said.

The facility, if approved for property transference and renovations, is to be used for public tours and other special uses. Parts of the prison would be deemed inaccessible to visitors to prevent concerns raised for environmental exposure. To note, the city’s findings from an environmental engineering report show there exists no threat, based on the proposed use for the facility.

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning provided the city with three potential renovation plans to consider, ranging in value from $3.8 million to $79 million and another scenario totaling to $30 million. The proposed repairs at a minimum include improvements to bring in utilities, add landscaping and allow access to existing spaces within the prison, including some cell blocks, a kitchen and dining facility, the hospital and reception area.

Transfer of ownership could be sought to promote public safety and economic development. Sen. Pat McGuire (D-Crest Hill) and Rep. Larry Walsh, Jr. (D-Elwood) formed the Collins Street task force a number of years ago with these goals in mind.

The proposed plan for the prison stipulates that Joliet’s Utilities Department purchase the parcel housing a tower, well and water building for $100,000, with the funds retrieved being used for security purposes.

Hock said the city believes that “based on the current state of disrepair in the facility, we aren’t proposing anything close to any of these plans.”

Peerbolte agreed.

“It’s a fairly turn-key operation,” he said.

However, Councilman Larry Hug disagreed.

“One of the pressing issues for those that are in favor of considering taking it over is the longer it stays with the State and they don’t put millions into it, the more it’s going to deteriorate,” he said. “Well, I’ve got some shocking news for you. Once we buy it for $10 and once we put millions up front, it’s going to continue to deteriorate. So, we don’t know how bad it’s gotten since the last time we were allowed… which was back in 2013.”

Councilwoman Jan Quillman questioned how the State is able to retain rights to the prison without being held responsible for the deterioration.

“It’s just that I don’t understand why we can’t hold them accountable for fixing up the building,” she said. “We can’t just let it sit there and deteriorate… That’s the part I don’t get.”

City staff will look into what action they can take against the State for allowing the prison to deteriorate.

A number of Joliet officials expressed weariness at the thought of moving closer to taking ownership of the facility during last week’s meeting.

O’Dekirk suggested to the council that they table the matter for further review at a later date.

To proceed with the project, the City of Joliet and the Joliet Area Historical Museum will need to form a Memorandum of Understanding and look into how they plan to address other measures to propel forward the facility and its new use.

Information in Police Blotter is obtained from Joliet, Shorewood and Lockport police departments and the Will County Sheriff’s Office. Individuals listed in Police Blotter charged with a crime have not been proven guilty in court. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

JOLIET

APRIL 11

Pablo Castelan, 46, of Joliet was cited near Richards and I80 for improper display of registration and no valid driver’s license.

Jose M. Valdes, 48, of Joliet, was cited near E. Washington and S. Briggs for driving while license revoked and improper turn at intersection.

Edgar Martinez, 31, of Joliet, was cited near E. Jackson and Collins for obstructing windows, improper lane usage, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and resisting a police officer.

Marco Silva Flores, 33, of Chicago, was cited near E. Cass and Walnut for no registration light, no valid driver’s license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

Alexander M. Perez, 25, of Joliet was near E. Washington and S. Briggs cited for driving on a suspended license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and following too closely.

Alexandra L. Obiero, 29, of Joliet, was arrested on the 200 block of E. Cass St.

for possession of a controlled substance and was held on two active warrants.

Suspects entered a vehicle on the 500 block of Fairbanks and removed a cell phone.

APRIL 12

Francisco J. Guerrero, 19, of Crest Hill, was arrested near N. Briggs and Sterling for aggravated speeding, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, disregarding a traffic control device, three counts of disobeying a stop sign, reckless driving, fleeing/eluding a peace officer and driver’s license never issued.

Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle on the 3000 block of Tyler and stole a gym bag containing raffle tickets and ID’s.

Jamie Jauregui Jr., 23, of Joliet, was cited near Washington and Arizonafor no registration light, driving while license suspended and speeding.

APRIL 13

Samantha J. Brain, 28, of Romeoville, was arrested near N. Broadway and Division for improper lane usage, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and DUI.

William H. Lee, 56, of Joliet, was cited near Charlesworth and Woodruff for disregarding a stop sign and driving while license suspended.

Lousharma Barber, 30, of Joliet, was cited near W. Cass and N. Joliet for driving while license suspended.

APRIL 14

Devon Tyler, 50, of Joliet, was cited near S. Briggs and E. Washington for no valid driver’s license, expired registration and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

Antwoin Calvert, 42, of Joliet, was cited near E. Cass and Maple for operating an uninsured motor vehicle, driving while license suspended and improper display of registration.

APRIL 15

Victoria Chmieleski, 43, of Elwood, was arrested on the 100 block of E. Zarley

for DUI, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, illegal transportation of alcohol and no driver’s license.

Arturo Charmy, 36, of Joliet, was arrested near E. Jackson and State St. for improper lane usage, disregarding a stop sign, and DUI.

Sharita Jones, 33, of Romeoville, was cited near Larkin and McDonough for following too closely and driving while license suspended.

APRIL 16

Daniela Munoz, 22, of Joliet near Collins and Irving, was cited for no turn signal and driving while license suspended. Munoz was held on two active warrants.

LOCKPORT

APRIL 13

Suspects entered an unlocked truck on the 1000 block of McCameron and stole headphones and medications.

APRIL 18

Lauren C. Petty, 28, of Plainfield, was cited near S. State and Harvard for disobeying a stop sign and driving while license suspended.

SHOREWOOD

APRIL 17

Eric F. Brown, 27, of Bolingbrook, was arrested near Black Road and Brookforest Avenue for driving while license suspended, expired registration.

APRIL 25

NolanLewis, 48, of Minooka, was arrested on the 800 block of Brookforest Avenue for driving while license suspended, speeding and two Will County Warrants.

APRIL 29

Elliott Hardwick, 48, of Cicero, was arrested on a DuPage County warrant.

Mary A. Shawyer, 18, of Caveland, Maryland, was arrested at the 19755 NE Frontage Rd (Econo Lodge) for an out-of-state warrant.

Minooka’s ace right-hander pitcher Jackson Shepherd (7-0), struggled early in his Southwest Prairie Conference outing on Friday, against Oswego East (24-6, 9-6). Allowing an unearned run and two hits in the first inning and then two successful hits to open up the second inning, it looked like an early exit, for the Indian ace.
“I really struggled  in the first and second innings,” Shepherd said. “My curve ball was hanging over the plate and Oswego East was barreling-up my fastball. My defense turned a couple of double plays and all of a sudden my pitches were working.”
Indeed. Over the next six innings, Shepherd allowed just one single and closed out the 4-1 win, by retiring the last 12 Wolves’ batters.
Jon Butler’s sac-fly in the first inning tied the game at 1-1. Cole Alstott’s RBI single in the fourth, turned out to be the Indian game winner.
“It was a very lucky hit for me,” Alstott said. “Like you said, it’ll look like a line drive in the box score in the morning.”
Shepherd followed with a clutch two-out RBI single, for a 3-1 Indian lead. Logan O’Brien made it 4-1 Minooka, with another RBI single in the fifth.
“Jackson (Shepherd) struggled early for us but with the help of his defense, really settled down and pitched well,” Minooka coach Jeff Petrovic said. “Antonio Milazzo was outstanding for us at second base tonight and all season.”

PLAINFIELD SOUTH 3, OSWEGO 2
After Oswego (16-9, 8-6) had tied, another well-played Southwest Prairie Conference battle, in the top of the seventh, Plainfield South’s (20-7-1, 12-3), senior right-hander Nick Becker, replaced the Cougars,Western Illinois-bound starter Jordan Mikel (5-2). It only took Becker two pitches, to nail down the third out of the seventh, setting the stage for Cougar senior Marco Escobar.
Escobar sent Cougar Nation dancing onto Caton Farm Road, with his walk-off single that gave the Cougars a heart-pulsing 3-2 win. With the win the Cougars retain their 1 ½ game SPC lead over Minooka. It was Escobar’s second hit of the day and was joined by Mikel, who had two hits and drove home the other two Cougar runs. Slick-fielding shortstop Nick Mayerhofer, chipped in with a pair of hits for South. Nick “The Vulture” Becker, picked up the 2-pitch win on the mound.

PLAINFIELD CENTRAL 5, ROMEOVILLE 4
Nate Yusko (5-2) pitched four quality innings, for Plainfield Central (21-7, 10-5), to pick up the win on the mound, as the Wildcats stayed within two games of Plainfield South (20-7-1, 12-3) in the Southwest Prairie Conference. Rocky Pascente and Brandon Callender each drove home a run for Central. 

PLAINFIELD NORTH 3, PLAINFIELD EAST 0
Keegan Bates and Nick Cerrato, combined on a two hit shutout, as the Tigers (21-8, 10-5) kept pace in the SPC with Plainfield South. The red-hot Alex Steinbach had two more hits with an RBI, while junior Brady Miller chipped in with a hit and an RBI for Plainfield North (21-8, 10-5)

LISLE 4, REED CUSTER 1
The Lions (10-17, 5-10), behind ace right-hander Zach Heidenry, won the Interstate 8 Conference crossover game on Friday. Heidenry, fired a four-hitter at the Comets. Grant Haen drove home two Lion runs while Ben Lanning chipped in with one RBI.

-Compiled by Drake Skleba

For the sixth consecutive outing, Joliet Catholic Academy RHP Brenden Wills (6-2), pitched the East Suburban Catholic Conference-leading Hilltoppers, to victory on Saturday. JCA (19-11,1, 14-2), romped past St. Viator, 10-0 in the second game of their ESCC doubleheader, at St. Viator.
After being shutout 3-0, on three-hits, by St. Viator’s University of Notre-bound Cole Kmet (5-3), the Hilltoppers scored two in the first and second and then put the game away with a six-run fourth and rolled to a 10-0 five inning victory. With the win the Hilltoppers clinch a tie for the ESCC title. They can win the title outright on Monday at Nazareth or if Carmel (16-7,11-4) loses at St. Viator (17-12, 8-8), also on Monday.
“We bounced back well after being shutdown by Kmet in the first game,” Wills said. “I pitched well and I really enjoy pitching to my catcher Jack Surin. It feels good to have clinched a tie for the ESCC title. We want to win it on Monday.” Wills fired a three-hitter at the Lions with five strikeouts. Simon Grashoff had a pair of RBI singles for the
Hilltoppers.
“It was felt good to hit in the DH spot in game two,” Grashoff said. “We jumped on them early and Brenden pitched well for us. We not only want to win the ESCC but make a run at a 3A state championship.”
Louisville-bound Mike O’Brien, singled, doubled, stole three bases, drove home a run and scored three times for JCA. Other than that the future Cardinal didn’t do much.
“After getting shutdown in game one by Kmet, we really hit well, in game two” O’Brien said. “I really hit the ball hard and had a good day on the bases. We want wrap up this conference title and move on.”
Sophomore Greg Ziegler, doubled home two runs while freshman Chris Knapczyk, had two singles in the Hilltopper six-run fourth. Jared Cushing chipped in with a RBI double.

Minooka 2, Joliet West 0
The Indians (19-9, 11-4) stayed within a game of Southwest Prairie Conference leader Plainfield South (21-7-1, 12-3),with the win. Devin Smith stuck out four and allowed just three hits in his game-winning 6 1/3 innings on the mound for Minooka. Greg Olson had two hits while Logan O’Brien and Deston Martin, drove home the two Indian runs. Joliet West (6-20-2, 3-12) was led Adam Scharf and Dylan Suca.

Plainfield South 9, Lincoln-Way East 8
Well once again, on Saturday, Cougar Nation was partying on Caton Farm Road. In a nonconference game at South, in the bottom of the seventh, of an 8-8 game, Trey Stewart stepped to the plate. After Stewart’s blast went over the centerfield fence, giving the Cougars the 9-8 nonconference win, a post-game Caton Farm Road celebration began. Stewart drove home three runs and Missouri-bound Konnor Ash, drove home a pair of Cougar runs.

Benet Academy sweeps past Marian Central Catholic
The Redwings (20-10, 8-6), won for the 20^th time this season, in the second game of their East Suburban Catholic doubleheader, with MCC, on Saturday. Greg Ahern and Tony Adams, combined on a three-hitter, in a 2-1 game one victory. Ahern allowed a run in his five innings to pick up the win. Adams fired two scoreless innings, to nail down the save. Mike Dunn drove home the Redwing game-winner.
In game two, Steve Arrowsmith, allowed a run in four innings, to pick up the win on the mound. Dunn drove home two more runs for the Redwings and Marty Dosen, chipped in with an RBI.

Notre Dame 2-7, Nazareth 3-5
After falling 3-2 in their East Suburban Catholic twin-bill opener, the Dons (12-18-1,5-13) opened up a 7-0 lead and hung on to a 7-5 second game win, over Nazareth. Aidan French led the game two Don attack, with three RBIs . Jackson Kaplowitz had three more hits for ND.

Niles West 5 Maine East 3|
The Wolves ended their six-game skid, with the Central Suburban crossover win, behind Diego Garcia and Johnny Pabst. Garcia allowed one run in his four solid innings on the mound, to pick up the win and Pabst drove home two Wolf runs. Jack Lochner and Bryan Maldanado, also drove home runs for West (14-11, 7-7).

Lockport 11, Elk Grove 1 (5 innings)
The Southwest Suburban Blue leaders, pounded Elk Grove in five innings at Ed Flink. Ryne Travis, pounded a pair of doubles and drove home four Porter runs. Nick Strysik had an RBI single while DJ Studniarz doubled home a pair. Kevin Davis, allowed one hit in his three scoreless innings, to pick up the win on the mound.

Downers Grove North 8, Leyden 7
Red-hot Tyler Rosen, had two more hits and drove home three more Trojan (18-13) runs, as DGN edged Leyden in a West Suburban Conference crossover game. Jeremy Delvalle picked up the win on the mound and had three hits at the plate.

Plainfield East 14, Stillman Valley 7
The Bengals (18-13) routed Stillman Valley in a nonconference game on Saturday at East. Jake Havis drove home three Bengal runs while Frank Bryan added a pair. Jake Knoebel, chipped in with three hits for East.

-Compiled by Drake Skleba

Joliet Catholic Academy’s (20-11-1),  hard-throwing southpaw Aidan Tyrell (4-1), pitched and hit the Hilltoppers past Nazareth 7-1 and to an outright East Suburban Catholic Conference championship, on Monday. Tyrell fired a four-hitter at the Roadrunners, with eight punch-outs. Tyrell also had three hits, including a double and drove home three Hilltopper runs. Louisville-bound Mike O’Brien continued his torrid hitting with a pair of doubles and drove home a Hilltopper run. St. Francis-bound Jack Surin, launched his first round-tripper of the season to dead centerfield.
“Aidan was pumped to pitch for this game, back on Saturday,”  Hilltopper head coach Jared Voss said.  “He threw strikes and pitched a great game for us. He certainly hit well, too.”

Plainfield South 6, Oswego 2
The Southwest Prairie- leading Cougars (22-7-1, 13-3) rolled past Oswego, behind Missouri-bound RHP Konnor Ash (6-3). Ash fired a four-hitter at Oswego (16-11, 8-7), with seven strikeouts. Ash helped himself at the plate with two RBI. Nick Mayerhofer had two more hits with an RBI while AJ Manucci chipped in with two hits.  Saturday’s hero Trey Stewart, drove home a Cougar run. The Cougars will close out SPV play at second-place Minooka on Wednesday and back at South on Friday.

Minooka 10, Oswego East 4
The Indians dismantled Oswego East in Oswego, on Monday behind Luke Faifer. Faifer had three hits and drove home three runs, to lead the 10-hit Indian attack. Jon Butler, chipped in with a pair of hits, while Cherokee LeBeau drove home two Indian runs. Tyler Talbot (5-2) struck out eight in his six solid innings of work, to get the win on the mound.
With the win, Minooka (20-9, 12-4) stay within one game of Southwest Suburban Prairie-leading Plainfield South (22-7-1, 13-3). The two SPC powers will collide at Minooka on Wednesday and at South on Friday, in an SPC finale.

Plainfield Central 13, Romeoville 1 ( 5 innings)
The Wildcats (22-8, 11-5) crushed the Spartans in five innings, in the Southwest Prairie on Monday. Kyle Cockrell, led the Central attack with two hits and drove home two Wildcat runs. Cockrell (5-2) picked up the win on the mound, too Nate Yusko led the 12-hit Plainfield Central attack with four hits. David Ascensio chipped in with two hits.

Plainfield North 4, Plainfield East 3 (10 innings)
It was party time on 248^th Avenue in Plainfield on Monday, as Alex Steinbach, launched a walk-off home run leading Plainfield North (22-8, 11-5), to a thrilling 4-3 Southwest Prairie Conference victory. Junior Gavin Doyle drove home two Tiger runs and the hot-hitting Anthony Fumagalli, had two more hits.

Downers Grove South 6, Willowbrook 4
Keeping their West Suburban Gold Conference championship aspirations alive, the Mustangs (22-8-1, 12-3-1) defeated WSC-Gold leader Willowbrook (22-7, 13-3) , behind Nick Stacey. Stacey struck out seven in his solid five-inning performance on the mound, to pick up the win. At the plate, Stacey had three hits and drove home a Mustang run. Brett Riegler, added two hits and two RBI for South, while Mike Wagner drove home a pair of runs.

Lisle 16, Chicago Rowe Clark 0 ( five innings)
In their Class 2A Westmont Regional opener at Lisle, the Lions (12-18) crushed their visitors from the Windy City in five innings behind Max Sokolowski. Sokolowski had two hits and drove home four Lion runs. David White fired four scoreless innings for Lisle, to pick up the win on the mound.

Joliet Central 5, Joliet West 4
The Steelmen (11-16-3, 4-11) hung on to defeat the archrivals Tigers. JoJo McNair (3-4) fired a six-hitter at the Tigers, with five strikeouts to pick up the win. Ricky Malmfeldt, had three hits for the Steelmen, while Nate Magolan, chipped in with a pair of hits.  Joliet West (6-20-2, 3-13) was led by Adam Scharf, who had two hits and two RBI for the Tigers. Tom Murray also had two hits for West.

Marian Catholic 7, Benet Academy 4
The Redwings (20-11, 10-7) dropped their ESCC game on Monday. Tony Bautista had a four-hit game for the Redwings.

Bolingbrook 2, Morris 1
The Raiders (14-10-1) won the nonconference game, scoring a run in the bottom of the sixth to tie the game at 1-1 and then winning the game, in  walk-of style, in the bottom of the seventh. No details were provided on the Raider victory.

Mary Rousonelos (nee Tsongranis), 80, a resident of Alden Assisted Living in Aurora, a longtime resident of Plainfield since 1967, formerly of Joliet, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 9, at her home in Aurora, surrounded by her family, after a long illness. She was born May 10, 1936 in Salamanca, NY.

Beloved wife of the late Andrew G. “Andy” “Styke” Rousonelos, whom she married June 26, 1955 and who preceded her in death on October 12, 2013, loving mother of Katina (Mike) Sillar of Plainfield, Gus (Georgia) Rousonelos of Naperville, Emmanuel (Irene) Rousonelos of Oak Brook, Anna (Kent) Alcott of Batavia, Andy (Dawn) Rousonelos of Plainfield, Elaine Kalantzis of Naperville, Stan Rousonelos of Hawthorn Woods and Kally Rousonelos of Naperville; adored grandmother of Bill, Michael and the late Andrew Sillar; Katherine, Maria and Andrew Rousonelos; Maria (Niko) Makarios, Konstantina (Matthew) Gladstone; Andrew and Mary Alcott; Alyssa, Kristen, Andy and the late Katlyn, Amanda and Christopher Rousonelos; Maria and Paige Kalantzis; Andrew, Cici and Sophia Rousonelos, cherished great-grandmother of Nektarios, Eirini and Paisios; devoted daughter of the late Emanuel and Kalotina Tsongranis, dear sister of Stella Argoudelis of Plainfield, Nick (Dora) Tsongranis of Tarpon Springs, Fla., and the late Rev. George (the late Sophie)Tsongranis, Mike (Sylvia) Tsongranis, Kally (Steve) Panagiotis and Nickey Tsongranis; sister-in-law of Sugar (the late Richard) DeJarld of Shorewood, and the late Peter (the late Anna) Rousonelos, Anne Scaropoulos, Marge (the late Pete) Apostolou, Michael (the late Martha) Rousonelos and Stanley (the late Nola) Rousonelos; fond aunt and friend to many including many new friends at Alden Assisted Living.

Mary grew up in Tarpon Springs and was a graduate of Tarpon Springs High School. Her passion for singing started at a young age in the St. Nicholas Cathedral choir. She was a member of All Saints Greek Orthodox Church, Joliet and St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church, Aurora. Mary, along with her husband, was endlessly devoted to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mary’s home was open to many visitors who enjoyed her delicious cooking and baking. She enjoyed family vacations and can’t wait to tell her husband the Cubs finally won the World Series.

Visitation was May 14 at Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 15219 S. Joliet Rd., Plainfield.

Funeral Services were May 15 at St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church, 1855 5th Ave., Aurora, with Fr. Peter Spiro and Fr. Wilbur Ellsworth officiating.

Interment: Wheatland Township Cemetery, Naperville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to: St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church, 1855 5th Ave., Aurora, IL 60504, (630) 851-6106, saintathanasios.com or Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, 28W770 Warrenville Rd., Warrenville, IL 60555, (630) 836-1319, www.htaoc.com or Foundation Fighting Blindness, 7168 Columbia Gateway Drive, Suite 100, Columbia, MD 21046, (800) 683-5555, www.blindness.org

For more information, please call (815) 436-9221 or visit www.overman-jones.com

Information in Police Blotter is obtained from Joliet, Shorewood and Lockport police departments and the Will County Sheriff’s Office. Individuals listed in Police Blotter charged with a crime have not been proven guilty in court. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

JOLIET

APRIL 11

Pablo Castelan, 46, of Joliet, was cited near Richards and I80 for improper display of registration and no valid driver’s license.

Jose M. Valdes, 48, of Joliet, was cited near E. Washington and S. Briggs or driving while license revoked and improper turn at intersection.

Edgar Martinez, 31, of Joliet, was cited near E. Jackson and Collins for obstructing windows, improper lane usage, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and resisting a police officer.

Marco Silva Flores, 33, of Chicago, was cited near E. Cass and Walnut for no registration light, no valid driver’s license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

Alexander M. Perez, 25, of Joliet, was cited near E. Washington and S. Briggs for driving on a suspended license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and following too closely.

Alexandra L. Obiero, 29, of Joliet, was arrested on the 200 block of E. Cass St for possession of a controlled substance and was held on two active warrants.

Suspects entered a vehicle on the 500 block of Fairbanks and removed a cell phone.

APRIL 12

Francisco J. Guerrero, 19, of Crest Hill, was arrested near N. Briggs and Sterling for aggravated speeding, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, disregarding a traffic control device, three counts of disobeying a stop sign, reckless driving, fleeing/eluding a peace officer and driver’s license never issued.

Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle on the 3000 block of Tyler and stole a gym bag containing raffle tickets and ID’s.

Jamie Jauregui Jr., 23, of Joliet, was cited near Washington and Arizona for no registration light, driving while license suspended and speeding.

APRIL 13

Samantha J. Brain, 28, of Romeoville, was arrested near N. Broadway and Division for improper lane usage, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, and DUI.

William H. Lee, 56, of Joliet, was cited near Charlesworth and Woodruff for disregarding a stop sign and driving while license suspended.

Lousharma Barber, 30, of Joliet, was cited near W. Cass and N. Joliet for driving while license suspended.

APRIL 14

Devon Tyler, 50, of Joliet, was cited near S. Briggs and E. Washington for no valid driver’s license, expired registration and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

Antwoin Calvert, 42, Joliet, was cited near E. Cass and Maple for operating an uninsured motor vehicle, driving while license suspended and improper display of registration.

APRIL 15

Victoria Chmieleski, 43, of Elwood was arrested on the 100 block of E. Zarley for DUI, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, illegal transportation of alcohol and no driver’s license.

Arturo Charmy, 36, of Joliet was arrested near E. Jackson and State Street for improper lane usage, disregarding a stop sign, and DUI.

Sharita Jones, 33, of Romeoville, was cited near Larkin and McDonough for following too closely and driving while license suspended.

APRIL 16

Daniela Munoz, 22, of Joliet, was cited near Collins and Irving for no turn signal and driving while license suspended.  Munoz was held on two active warrants.

LOCKPORT

APRIL 13

Suspects entered an unlocked truck on the 1000 block of McCameron and stole headphones and medications.

APRIL 18

Lauren C. Petty, 28, of Plainfield, was cited near S. State and Harvard for disobeying a stop sign and driving while license suspended.

SHOREWOOD

MAY 2

Farries O’Bryant, 37, of Joliet, was arrested near Black Road and Brookforest Avenue for driving with a revoked license.

By Megann Horstead | For The Bugle

Redevelopment for a city-owned property just outside Slammers Stadium to include a doughnut shop and sandwich shop could be in the works.

Potential developers behind the proposal are generating interest from city staff, enough interest to consider beginning negotiations for a redevelopment agreement for what is known as the “Stadium Club” at 141 E. Jefferson St.

Discussion was held May 11 by members of the city’s economic development committee regarding the 18,000 square-foot building, which hasn’t been utilized in a number of years.

“Basically, this is the sort of proposal that really meets our downtown plan: mecca for young adults,” Deputy City Manager Steve Jones said.

Plans proposed for the site include 10 multi-family apartment units and three commercial spaces. The developer already holds a letter of intent from a sandwich shop and is currently in talks with a doughnut shop.

In late 2016, the city put together goals for economic development. Request for proposals were sent out to parties whose initiative is to put the building to use.

“When you think about it as a baseball stadium downtown, there’s more to it than that,” Jones said. “[The developer] had the vision to realize that with his three commercial spaces as opposed to one.”

Jones noted that grocery stores have become a source of interest on the city’s east side and said commercial space could include a convenience store if desired.

The developer intends to survey the market for other potential opportunities to occupy space within the building.

Economic Development Committee Chairman Larry Hug said he supports this proposal as it’s drafted.

“Believe it or not, I want to point out the other proposal was very good, too,” he said. “[We’re] getting a couple microbreweries up and running here in downtown. They were looking at putting a microbrewery.”

Hug noted that establishing another microbrewery in town could hold challenge for Joliet if the business closed and said it would be easier to fill the space later with other potential uses.

“I think this can be a good project,” Jones said. “If you would’ve told me six months ago this project would be ready before Crabigale’s, I wouldn’t have believed it. I would’ve thought this would be kind of a off-the-beaten-path property wouldn’t be attractive, but these guys were excited.”

The project, if approved by the Joliet City Council, is a probable 12-month build out.

City Center Partnership board seeking new members

The Joliet City Center Partnership is seeking new board members to join its ranks, its chairman said last week.

The board has yet to be expanded since the city approved a measure late last year expanding the special service area to businesses on Cass, Collins and Chicago streets. To add, the city’s Economic Development committee approved a memorandum of understanding to solidify rules between the City of Joliet and the Joliet City Center Partnership.

Chairman Bryan Kopman said those wanting to serve on the board should contact the Joliet City Center Partnership. The new members would be taken after new bylaws are drafted, he said.

The board’s rules currently stipulate that members must own property in the downtown, manage property there, work there or serve as an elected official whose district covers the area. A new measure was introduced into the memorandum of understanding to expand membership to as many as two new members from outside the district that possess expertise desired by the board.

The memorandum of understanding is to be reviewed by the Joliet City Council at a later date.

The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) has awarded accreditation to Silver Cross Hospital’s Laboratory based on results of a recent on-site inspection as part of the CAP’s Accreditation Program.

Silver Cross Hospital’s Lab is one of more than 7,700 CAP-accredited facilities worldwide to receive this national recognition for the excellent services it provides to its patients.

“On behalf of my colleagues, Dr. Cagatay Ersahin and Dr. Umesh Kapur, and the entire Silver Cross Hospital Laboratory staff, we are honored to receive such prestigious recognition from the College of American Pathologists,” said Dr. Samer Dola, Medical Director of Pathology Services at Silver Cross Hospital. “By receiving the CAP accreditation, which is the gold standard for international accreditation, Silver Cross has proven its commitment to providing exceptional quality healthcare to our patients.”

The U.S. federal government recognizes the CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program, begun in the early 1960s, as being equal-to or more-stringent-than the government’s own inspection program. During the CAP accreditation process, designed to ensure the highest standard of care for all laboratory patients, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures for the preceding two years. CAP inspectors also examine laboratory staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and record, and overall management.

During the two years preparing for the CAP inspection, the pathologists and lab staff at Silver Cross utilized their vast expertise as they collaborated to create hundreds of new procedures and standards to improve quality and safety processes in the laboratory,” said Cindy Sporleder, Quality and Safety Lead for Laboratory Services at Silver Cross Hospital.

“Since 70 percent of health care decisions are guided by laboratory test results, having a CAP accredited laboratory that provides quality trusted results is a vital resource for area residents,” said Dr. Dola.

The Mustang West Suburban Gold championship drive continued at DGS on Tuesday. After spotting Willowbrook  (23-8, 13-4) a 4-0 lead, Downers Grove South (23-8-1, 13-3-1) scored the next 11 runs of the game, including eight in the bottom of the sixth, to replace the Warriors atop the WSC-Gold standings, with the 11-4 victory.
Alex Hanek led the Mustang uprising with three hits and drove home four Mustang runs. Mike Greco chipped in  with a pair of ribbies for DGS. Cam Crowley fired an eight-hitter, with six strikeouts, to pick up the win on the mound for the’Stangs.

On Wednesday, the Mustangs will continue a 7-7, in the top of the eighth, suspended game with Leyden (19-5-2, 13-3-1), from April 12, at DGS. On Thursday, they will travel to Willowbrook, for their WSC Gold finale.

LW East 10, Lockport 9
Lincoln-Way East’s (13-14, 6-3) Ben Wallace’s walk-off double, created a three-way logjam atop the Southwest Suburban Blue Conference. The Griffins, Porters (17-13-1, 6-3) and Tuesday’s Sandburg (16-6, 5-3)-Bolingbrook (14-10-1, 5-3) game-winner, will be tied for first with one game to go.
Connor Fitzgerald, DJ Studniarz and Brent McDowell, all drove home two Porter runs. On Wednesday, the Porters and Griffins will meet at Ed Flink Field, for at least a share of the SWSC-Blue title.

Joliet Catholic Academy 16, Nazareth 6 (4 ½ innings)
The East Suburban Catholic Conference champions made quick work of Nazareth (18-16, 6-12) in the Hilltoppers ESCC finale, at Gillespie Field. Now white-hot Michael O’Brien and Aidan Tyrell, each had three more hits for JCA.
Tyrell drove in three more runs, while Jared Cushing also added three Hilltopper ribbies.
The Hilltoppers improved to 21-11-1 for the season, winners of 11 of their last 12 games. On April 9, JCA was 4-7-1. Between then and now 17-4 and an outright ESCC title.

Benet 12 , Marian Catholic 9
The Redwings (21-11, 11-7) concluded East Suburban Catholic Conference play with the win in Chicago Heights.
Jack Schneider and Erik Jones led the Redwing attack with two hits and three RBI each. Tyler Bautista had two more hits for Benet.

Notre Dame 7, Painfield Central 5
Dempster Avenue in Niles, was, once again the sight of another walk-off victory celebration, at ND, on Tuesday. With the scored  tied at 5-5 in the bottom of the seventh, Max Rimac, sent Don fans into a frenzy, when he wallopped a two-run homer, giving the Dons a 7-5 nonconference victory over Plainfield Central. Matt Dougherty chipped in with a pair of RBI for Notre Dame (13-19-1).
Plainfield Central (22-9) was led by Kyle Cockrell who had three hits and two RBI, for the Wildcats. Nate Yusko chipped in with two hits for Central.

Lincoln-Way West 8, Minooka 1
The Southwest Suburban Conference Red Division champs from LW West (20-11-1) routed the Indians in a nonconference game on Tuesday. Jon Butler drove home the lone Indian run.
On Wednesday the Indians (20-10, 12-4) will host Southwest Prairie Conference leader Plainfield South (22-7-1, 13-3) in a huge SPC matchup.

Rolling Meadows 12, Maine South 9
The Hawks (4-24) fell to the Mustangs in a nonconference shootout in Rolling Meadows. Anthony Bartell led the Hawk attack with three hits and five RBI. Marty McNulty and Will Brendza, each, had a pair of hits for the Hawks.

Yorkville 13, Plainfield East 8
The Bengals (18-15) fell in nonconference action at East on Tuesday. JJ Zywiciel led East.

– Compiled by Drake Skleba

A group of Plainfield South High School students raised $5,535 for something they might never see in a country they may never visit.

PSHS seniors Alex Mayer, Unzila Manzoor, Citlalli Ruiz, Daniel Muncaster, Shannon Solomon, Olivia McGrath, Sarah Mullan, Alex Hurtado and Andres Ruiz hosted the “Water Challenge” last fall.

The goal was to raise money to protect water supplies in Africa where people walk miles every day to get fresh water.

The students recently learned that their donation went to build a well and to protect the spring that feeds the well for about 500 people in Simboyi, Kenya.

Organizers asked participants to drink only water for two weeks and donate the money they would have spent on soda or coffee to The Water Project. The Water Project is a nonprofit dedicated to providing and protecting clean water to sub-Saharan countries in Africa.

Mayer organized the core group of students last summer to begin planning for the fundraiser. He grouped the students into teams and gave each a specific focus such as marketing or soliciting for donations.

“There was no shortage of effort from those involved,” said Daniel Muncaster.

Many of the student organizers were pleasantly surprised with the support from not only PSHS but also the community.

Organizer Citlalli Ruiz said she was surprised by the school community’s excitement to donate and learn about how scarce clean was is in Africa.

PSHS Principal Bob Yanello is proud of the students for taking on a fundraiser of such magnitude.

“I was not at all surprised by the success of these students, they are great kids, I was only surprised of the huge undertaking and commitment they had put forward,”

Yanello said. “They exceeded all expectations, I imagine even their own.”

The project gave Shannon Solomon a great sense of fulfillment.

“There was a great sense of accomplishment when we learned the well had been built,” she said. “I’m a 17-year-old girl from Illinois who helped get this done.”

Visit https://thewaterproject.org/community/profile/pshss-campaign-for-water to see photos and learn more about the PSHS funded well project.

-Compiled by Drake Skleba

In a must-win situation Minooka (21-9, 13-4), outslugged Plainfield South 12-9, to force a winner-take-all battle for the Southwest Prairie Conference championship, Thursday at Plainfield South (22-8-1, 13-4). Hayden Lacyzynski led the Indian attack with five RBI. Logan O’Brien added four ribbies for Minooka. Trey Stewart had three hits and four RBI to lead the Cougars.

Leyden 12, Downers Grove South 7 ( 8 innings)
Leyden (20-5-2 14-3) got off the bus, killing the baseball, and scored five runs in the top of the eighth, of their suspended game with the Mustangs. With the win, the Eagles knocked the Mustangs (23-9, 13-4) out of first place and into a tie with Willowbrook (23-9, 13-4), who they play at Willowbrook, on Thursday. Leyden will take on winless Proviso East (0-23, 0-17) in Northlake on Thursday. With a win the Eagles will grab claim the West Suburban Gold championship.

LW East 5, Lockport 2
Lincoln-Way East (14-15, 7-3) broke the hearts of Porter Nation at Ed Flink. Lockport (17-15-1, 6-4) scored two runs in the first inning on an RBI single by Ryne Travis and Brett McDowell doubled home the second run of the inning, and the Porters would not score again. Four Porter errors led to their demise and elimination in the Southwest Suburban Conference championship race.

Westmont 15, Guerin Prep 0  ( 5 Innings)
The Sentinels (19-16) won their CLASS 2A Westmont Regional semifinal contest in five innings. No details were sent by Westmont.

Plainfield North 9, Joliet West 8
The Tigers and Tigers, both assaulted the baseball in a Southwest Prairie battle at North. Plainfield North (24-8, 12-5) was led by junior Brady Millerm who drove home four Tiger runs. Alex Steinbach and Gavin Doyle each, chipped in with a pair of RBI for the Tigers. Eastin May led West (6-23-2, 3-14) with four hits,while Brett Johnson chipped in with three hits.

Plainfield East 12, Oswego East 2 (6 innings)
The Bengals (19-15, 7-10)  unloaded on fading Oswego East (25-8, 9-8) in six innings, in the Southwest Prairie. JJ Zywiciel, Frank Bryan and Jake Knoebel, led the 12-hit Bengal attack with two hits and two RBI a piece.

Romeoville 9, Joliet Central 7
Romeoville (8-22, 3-14) outslugged the Steelmen (11-17-3, 4-13), in a Southwest Prairie shootout, at Romeoville. Fernando Perez had two his and two RBI, to lead the Spartan attack. Jeff Zach added two RBI for “The Ville” while Josh Golibrzuch chipped in with two hits. No details were sent for the Steelmen.

Oswego 18, Plainfield Central 5
The Wildcats (23-9, 11-6) were mauled by Oswego in the Southwest Prairie on Wednesday.

New Trier 9, Maine South 8
The Hawks (4-25, 2-14) gave the Central Suburban League South champions, from New Trier (23-4, 15-1), fits at Duke Childs Field in Winnetka. Jaiden Ortiz and Ryan Walsh, led the Hawks attack with two hits and two RBI each.

The Irish American Society of County Will is pleased to announce that Miryam Perez of Joliet Central High School and Stephanie Athanasoulis of Lincoln-Way West High School have been selected as this year’s recipients of Founding Fathers Scholarships of $1,000 each.

In addition, Andre Baez Martinez of Joliet Central High School, Taylar Brophy of Joliet West High School, Nicole Eatmon of Crete-Monee High School, and Sara Mazrimas of Lockport Township High School have been selected as this year’s recipients of Founding Fathers Scholarships of $500 each. These distinguished young leaders plan to pursue careers in medicine, law, business, and education.

Founding Fathers Scholarships are awarded to high school seniors on a competitive basis of scholarship, leadership, service and promise of future contributions to the community and can be used at a college, university, or trade school.

Since its founding in 1981, one of the essential purposes of the Irish American Society of County Will has been to promote education, friendship, understanding and cooperation among members and the community in general. This is the inaugural year of the Founding Fathers Scholarship and it has been awarded as a tribute to those who established the society in 1981.

The IASCW, a qualified non-profit organization under IRS code 501(c)(3), was founded in February, 1981 in Joliet. The IASCW offers people of Irish ancestry and friends the opportunity to share cultural education, heritage preservation, volunteer experiences, fellowship and laughter. Membership is open to all Will County residents.

A Joliet driver’s education instructor resigned this week after he was charged with drunken driving, school officials said Tuesday.

Nestor Nowak, 46, of Shorewood, taught at Joliet Central High School. The school board voted unanimously Tuesday, May 16, to accept his resignation.

The following is a communication sent by Dr. Cheryl McCarthy, Superintendent of Joliet Township High School District

Joliet Central High School Parents and Guardians:

I am writing to update you on a situation you may have encountered today in the media. One of our teachers and drivers’ education instructors, Nestor Nowak, has been charged with Driving Under the Influence by the Joliet Police in connection with an incident that occurred on April 6, 2017. Before describing the incident, it is important for you to know that Mr. Nowak was immediately on leave April 6, and has not been in a District 204 vehicle, nor at work, since that date. Mr. Nowak’s continued employment in District 204 is under review.

On the morning of April 6, 2017 (a School Improvement Day), while students were not in attendance, Mr. Nowak was discovered unresponsive behind the wheel of one of the District’s drivers’ education vehicles. Fearing a medical emergency, District employees called for an ambulance and Mr. Nowak was taken to the hospital. However, it became clear to District employees later that day that alcohol, and not a health emergency, was possibly the cause of Mr. Nowak’s condition. Mr. Nowak was immediately on leave and the district opened an investigation into the incident.

When the District’s administrators attempted to contact Mr. Nowak to be interviewed, we were advised that he was in a treatment program and would not be released for some time. We were unable to interview Mr. Nowak, but continued to gather evidence that was provided on April 13 to the Joliet Police Department. The Police Department ultimately issued a warrant for Mr. Nowak’s arrest on May 9. We appreciate the assistance of the Joliet Police and will continue to cooperate with the Department in every way.

It has also come to light that Mr. Nowak pled guilty in July of 2014 to a DUI charge. The District was not aware of that fact until today and we are investigating further to determine why we were not made aware of that incident. At this time, we have no evidence to indicate that Mr. Nowak was ever under the influence while he was teaching behind-the-wheel to District 204 students. However, we encourage any persons to come forward who may have information to the contrary. Our investigation continues and when we have additional information we are able to share, we will do so.

I share your frustration with what appears to be an unconscionable breach of the trust that you place in our District and our staff members. Please do not let this incident reflect unfairly on our incredible teachers and support staff who honor your trust every day through their hard work and dedication. We will continue to work to figure out the entire story behind this matter and we will take all appropriate measures to ensure the continued safety and well-being of your children.

Dr. Cheryl McCarthy, Superintendent

Every year, Joliet Central High School hosts its annual Art Show, which features a variety of pieces created by Joliet Central art students. This year’s Art Show was held on May 4 and 5 in the art classrooms on campus and was open to the public, including family, friends, alumni, and fellow students.

 Joliet Central High School offers various art classes, including Introduction to Art, Intermediate Art, 2-D Art I & II, and 3-D Art I & II. Each art student showcased at least one piece, demonstrating that anyone can enjoy and participate in the arts.

 “The students are showcasing all they have learned from our curriculum, which ranges from portraits to sculptures. This is a great event for family to join us in celebrating art and culture. Other students can also leave comments, which really uplifts and validates our art students,” said art teacher Nyssa Grzyb.

Alyson Collins, a junior taking intermediate art and 3D I, had several pieces on display and was proud to talk with guests about her artwork. She enthusiastically explained, “With each project, we get to experiment with different tools and test what works and what doesn’t, such as with subtractive sculptures in my 3D art class or playing with value and shading in my intermediate art class. For example, this artwork uses Trompe-l’œil, an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the optical illusion that the object exists in three dimensions.”

Collins added, “Taking art classes is important because you can discover that you may have a talent and passion for it, like I did. Once you study art, it gives you a new perspective to appreciate art wherever you go. I’m really proud of everyone for their hard work and creativity.”

The art show is also a valuable opportunity for students who have not studied art to admire the works of their classmates. Joliet Central senior Rodolfo Perez said, “I’m not an art student, but this is one of my favorite events of the whole year. It allows students to appreciate the art world at an early age.”

 Teacher Kris Lundgren added, “It’s great to see my students appreciate the work their peers have made. Many of them were surprised and admired seeing their peers’ skills and talents that they didn’t know they had. Our students leave with a newfound appreciation for art and a deep respect for the art students’ talents and hard work.”

 Joliet Central alumna Kirsten Selof, Class of 2015, was excited to return to her alma mater to attend the exhibit and said, “It’s great to come back and check out the students’ latest projects while also reconnecting with everybody. I miss my art teachers. They were really supportive during my four years in high school. To this day I enjoy creating ceramics.”

As always, the art show showcased the progress Joliet Central’s art students have made while also celebrating art as something that anyone and everyone can enjoy.

 View Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/jths204/albums/72157681479868591

Poet Tyehimba Jess, who won the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for his book Olio, visited the Joliet West High School Library by invitation from Joliet West teacher Mark Eleveld and hosted by librarians Amy Walsh and Amy Lingafelter. Jess read excerpts from Olio, a distinctive work that melds performance art with the deeper art of poetry to explore collective memory and challenge contemporary notions of race and identity.

Librarian Amy Walsh said, “Tyehimba Jess’s visit was a fantastic way to end National Poetry Month (which began in April)!  The opportunity to listen to a Pulitzer-prize winning poet read and discuss his own writing was unique and inspiring.  We were excited to provide this new experience for students in the Library. ”

 As Jess read his poems that tell the story of the McCoy twins, Jess explained the historical significance while also teaching technical poetic terminology to the students. The students in particular were very impressed by the interstitial readings of his concrete poems, especially the star of syncopated sonnets that resembled the silhouette of the conjoined twin sisters. They were also amazed when Jess tore pages out of his book Olio to demonstrate the meaning of deconstruction and reinterpretation of African American history.

Along with reading his poems with great energy and nuance, Jess shared additional words of wisdom, “Poetry will always be there. It is part of the human condition. One thing that poetry offers is the opportunity to creatively explore and illuminate one’s understanding of one’s lived experiences. There’s a human ache for poetry. The goal with any reading I do is to carry the stories of African American struggle and progress and to share the story of American artistic excellence.

High school students are in an influential part of their lives. When I was a kid, I had the opportunity to see poets and their way of life. People often think that poets have to be dead for over 50 years before they are relevant. It’s important to be exposed to living, breathing poets as well. Along the way I have met some incredible poets such as Dudley Randall, Gwendolyn Brooks, James Baldwin, Sterling Plumpp, and Haki Madhubuti.

 To be a poet, give it your all. Do what you love and the money will follow. It’s possible to be an artist and survive. Challenge yourself to grow yourself physically and intellectually. Rather than focus on the accolades, focus on what’s on the page.”

 Having known Jess for many years, Eleveld was happy to invite him to perform at Joliet West and said, “It’s so important for our students to see poets at a young age. For several years now at Joliet West High School, we have hosted the best living poets, from Chance the Rapper’s mentor Kevin Coval to Marty McConnell. We are very happy to have Ty here, writing in the tradition of Gwendolyn Brooks and other powerful voices from Chicago. Tyehimba is a thoughtful poet who works hard on his craft. It is great for the kids to see literature alive.”

 Many students felt inspired and in awe of the immense creativity and thoughtfulness shared by Tyehimba Jess. Student Matthew Roth was moved by the experience and said, “Tyehimba Jess’s poetry reading took me on an emotional and spiritual ride. This experience was truly inspiring.”

The Illinois chapter of the National School Public Relations Association (INSPRA) honored J.D. and Helen Ross among 35 public education individuals and teams for their outstanding communications work at INSPRA’s annual Distinguished Service Awards luncheon at the Bolingbrook Golf Club.

Receiving an Award of Excellence in the “Community Member” category, J. D. and Helen received recognition for their contributions to Joliet Township High School.  The Ross’ are key communicators who foster cooperative partnerships between JTHS and the community, strengthening the support of education among all stakeholders.

In 2015, Helen included JTHS students in achieving the Joliet Zonta Club’s mission of improving the status of women worldwide by establishing a Charter Club for Joliet Central High School female students. Helen worked with Superintendent Dr. Cheryl McCarthy to secure approval from the Zonta membership comprised of over 100 women leaders.

 Helen’s leadership resulted in the formation of the Fearless Females Z Club, which provides opportunities such as visits to ExxonMobil refinery where students meet with the Plant Manager and female employees from various departments.  The Z Club also participates in highly visible projects and events where they meet elected officials and prominent community members. 

Just as Helen is quick to support District 204, so is her husband, former Joliet Junior College President, J.D. Ross.  In August of 2016, the District’s Strategic Planning team wrote a new strategy to address concerns regarding hiring practices and staff diversity.  This sensitive topic called for the establishment of an Action Team comprised of diverse stakeholders.  JTHS called upon J.D. to co-facilitate this team on a volunteer basis. 

 Graciously accepting the task, J.D. co-facilitated the largest Action Planning Team in the District’s history with over 40 members who met once a week for three months.  The work was difficult and candid, but J.D.’s leadership resulted in quality action plans that the Board, Strategic Planning Team, and the community endorsed.

 Helen and J.D. Ross are shining examples of dedicated community members whose support has increased knowledge of the Joliet Township High School District 204 Strategic Plan and the quality education provided to its students.

NSPRA chapter members from Nebraska, Tennessee, New York, Missouri, Iowa, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, Kansas, Oregon and Texas judged entries. Only those receiving top scores in a variety of areas received awards.

“INSPRA is very happy and proud to recognize and honor this year’s recipients for their excellent communications about public education,” said INSPRA President Ryan McPherrin, Director of Community Relations for Community Consolidated School District 93 in Bloomingdale.

“These awards rightly highlight some of the many people who help our families and taxpayers understand the vital role of public education. This work is more important now than ever,” McPherrin said.

 The mission of INSPRA is to provide a source of connection, collaboration and professional development for school communicators in order to strengthen support for Illinois public schools, which leads to greater student success. Workshops and programs take place throughout the year, providing opportunities for members to learn and grow in their craft.

 The Distinguished Service Awards luncheon is a highlight of the year and is attended by communications professionals, superintendents, board of education members and other school leaders.

To learn more about INSPRA, visit www.inspra.org or find us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Find photos from today’s event on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Illinois-Chapter-of-the-National-School-PR-Assoc-INSPRA-261942457172387/.